Let’s Talk Shoes: Top 5 Nike Sneakers
With over hundreds of unique shoe designs and collabs with iconic brands like Off-White and Dior, Nike is undoubtedly the frontrunner in the sneaker industry. Originally, sneakers were intended for the sole purpose of athletic activity. However, nowadays sneakers have become a fashion statement not only in hip-hop culture, but also in the mainstream fashion world appealing to many different aesthetics. While you're scrolling through Instagram, you’ll see celebrities like Kylie Jenner styling a pair of Air Forces, Justin Timberlake rocking some Jordan 3s, or even Billie Eilish in some Air Maxes. Although these celebs all have different audiences, it's clear that sneaker culture has made an influence on a lot of people including me. With all that being said, here are my top five Nike sneakers of all time.
1. Air Jordan 1
My number one spot HAS to go to the classic Air Jordan 1s. Nike’s endorsement of basketball star Michael Jordan back in 1984 was one of the most revolutionary moments in the sneaker game. The iconic high top shoe with Nike swooshes on either side has been very popular in many different colorways for over 30 years. Although Jordan has released over twenty styles of sneakers, the 1s are timeless and have remained popular for a reason. What I love about these Jordans is that they are a STATEMENT. When picking out an outfit, these sneakers are the centerpiece, and clothing items should work around them. My favorite way to style Jordan 1s is with straight-leg jeans and an oversized crewneck or vintage t-shirt (maybe some chains and gold hoops if I’m feeling spicy).
2. Air Max 90
Nike Air Maxes are my absolute favorite sneakers, but specifically, the Air Max 90s hold a special place in my heart because they were the shoes that first introduced me to the sneaker game. With air cushioning technology and a gel sole visible from the outside, Air Max 90s are definitely the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever worn. The extra inch or two in height is also an added bonus! These sporty looking shoes are my go-to when I’m going on walks/hikes, and they are my everyday shoe when walking on campus. However, don’t get me wrong; I have definitely dressed them up and have worn my Air Maxes to business casual events as well. Overall, Air Max 90s are a versatile shoe.
3. Air Max 97
Number three on my list is another pair of Air Maxes...shocker. The Air Max 97s have a one-of-a-kind silhouette inspired by the ripples of pond water. Inspiration was also taken from Japanese bullet trains hence the name of the most iconic colorway of the 97s, the “Silver Bullets”. I’ll be honest, at first I was not a fan of these sneakers. In fact, I thought they were straight up ugly and did not understand the hype AT ALL. However, the 97s eventually grew on me and became a favorite of mine. What I like about them is that they have a unique and innovative, yet retro vibe to them. Also, the full-length visible air cushioning technology at the bottom of the shoe adds some comfort to the slim-fitted silhouette (FYI ordering a half a size up is the move). Although the 97s can be an everyday shoe, I personally would wear them on days when I wanted an extra flair to my overall outfit. These Air Maxes take a casual hoodie and sweatpants outfit the next level by making you look more put together and trendy.
4. Air Force 1s
You know ‘em, you love ‘em. Without a doubt, Air Force 1s have been flying off the shelves lately. You can’t go a day without seeing someone styling a pair of Air Forces, and although they can be viewed as “basic” I think they are a classic for a reason. Not only have rappers like Travis Scott and Drake been wearing them, but also young teenage influencers like Emma Chamberlain and Hannah Meloche have posted pictures of themselves with the classic all-white Air Forces on. These sneakers can be worn by anyone and fit anyone’s style. White AF1s are CLEAN. Not to mention, they are also cheap and accessible compared to a lot of other hyped-up sneakers, making them a great first shoe to have when diving into sneaker culture. Nike has collaborated with Supreme and Kith which has made Air Force 1s even more appealing (especially to hypebeasts who may have disregarded AF1s as a valuable shoe initially). In the end, Air Force 1s will always be a popular and well-known sneaker for its ability to be dressed up, with a dress or skirt for example, or even dressed down with a pair of jeans and a t-shirt.
5. Dunk Low
Last, but certainly not least, number five on my list goes to the Nike Dunk Lows. These shoes are making a COMEBACK this year. The Dunks were originally a shoe advertised for college basketball, however, the Dunk Lows have made their way to the skateboarding crowd and now in the general fashion world. These sneakers have a very similar silhouette to AF1s, so if you don’t want to be “basic”, go for the Dunk Lows. My personal favorite colorway is the Syracuse Dunk Lows, which uses the colors of Syracuse University. A lot of hype surrounded the release of this bright orange and white shoe, along with many other colorways that have been released just this year including the “Chunky Dunky”, which was a collaboration with Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream (and has a resell price of over $1000). All in all, this athletic sneaker can be a casual, everyday shoe or a flashy statement depending on the colorway.
